Degree Program Descriptions:

MS: Social and Philosophical Studies --

This master's degree works well as a foundation for doctoral study. When focused with an approved "topical major", the degree may also serve a variety of career and academic purposes. Students following this degree program engage in the study of the history, sociology, philosophy, and comparative international analyses of education.  Education, in this case, is broadly defined to include all aspects of formal and informal learning in and out of educational institutions. (back)

SPSE Program Planning Worksheet

MS: Higher Education --

This master's degree serves those contemplating careers in higher education or already working in a college or university. It may also be organized as a foundation for doctoral study.  Students may choose to concentrate their studies in the field of student affairs administration and follow a recommended program of study which includes an internship experience and emphasizes the study of college student learning and development, campus environments, and the relationship between theory and practice in the field.  Students may also choose to develop a program which examines the history, sociology, philosophy, and/or comparative international analyses of post-secondary settings broadly defined. (back)

HIED Program Planning Worksheet 

Doctor of Education (Ed.D.)

The Ed.D. program in Educational Policy Studies and Evaluation provides advanced study for those who seek careers in the administration or evaluation of educational programs in schools, colleges, or other institutional settings. EdD dissertations are expected to address problems of practice.  The program is also ideally suited for those who wish to develop the scholarly competence required for service as faculty members in colleges of education. 

Students plan their program of study with the help of a faculty adviser and the approval of a special committee made up of at least four members of the Graduate Faculty of the University (including at least three members from the Department). All programs include coursework chosen from the Department's four general areas of concentration, as well as work in related fields within the University. The degree requires completion of a minimum of 43 credit hours of coursework. There is no foreign language requirement, unless the student's goals would necessitate one.

The Department of Educational Policy Studies & Evaluation is currently offering a cohort model of our Ed.D. with a focus on Community and Technical College Leadership. The cohort model is part of a larger Carnegie Foundation Project on the Education Doctorate and is designed to prepare a group of thoughtful, focused, and creative individuals for key administrative and leadership posts in Kentucky’s two-year institutions. (back)

ESPE Program Planning Worksheet

EdD in EPE Cohort (next cohort begins January 2012)

Doctor of Philosophy in Higher Education (Ph.D.)

The Ph.D. program in Higher Education requires research on some aspect of higher education, broadly defined. Students may select an area of concentration from the history and philosophy of higher education, the socio-cultural study of higher education, or research, measurement, and evaluation in higher education.  PhD dissertations are expected to advance knowledge in the field.

Admission requirements and procedures are the same as for the Ed.D. (back)

SHED Program Planning Worksheet